City Council to consider changes for proposed port

The city's Planning Commission decided to unanimously back an amendment to the land use plan that would add a Port Area Plan, and approved a recommendation to the City Council to approve the creation of a planned commercial port overlay, which would amend the Land Use Regulations Section of the the city's zoning ordinance. Now the City Council will have final say.

CHEBOYGAN — City council will get to have its say tonight on the proposed Cheboygan port when it decides whether to adopt changes to the city's master plan and zoning ordinances.

The city's Planning Commission decided to unanimously back an amendment to the land use plan that would add a Port Area Plan, and approved a recommendation to the City Council to approve the creation of a planned commercial port overlay, which would amend the Land Use Regulations Section of the the city's zoning ordinance. Now the City Council will have final say.

The city has been involved with a committee that has been working in trying to establish a port to create manufacturing jobs along the mouth of the river.

Several manufacturers already have looked at the area and may proceed with having a presence in Cheboygan if all zoning matters are addressed.

Council also will hear from City Manager Dale Stuart about the ice rink pavilion and the condensation issues that have existed there.

"A firm was hired to come in an examine the issue," Stuart said. "I am getting direction on how to proceed."

Council also will face an issue that tabled from the last meeting and that is offering contracts for legal services. Stuart removed the item two weeks ago and now the matter will be placed back on the agenda for council's consideration.

A report also will be given for Department of Public Safety monthly statistics for November and December.